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Token Theatre Friends

What is a token theatre friend? It can mean being the token person of color in a play who serves no other purpose than to support the (white) main character (see also: sassy best friend, magical Negro). And it can refer to the experience of being the only person of color in a white theatregoing audience.

It can also mean being the one friend in your social group who loves theatre—the one they turn to for advice on what shows to see or for leads on tickets.

Diep Tran and Jose Solís‏ are that friend in their personal life. And they want to be that friend for you. Twice a month, they will interview artists that they’re excited about (on their YouTube channel) and review shows (on their podcast).

So want to get a dose of theatre as you’re at the gym or on break during tech? Take your Token Theatre Friends with you. They’ll be your eyes and ears in the theatre.

This week, an interview with Tony nominee Laura Osnes about why she’s fascinated by Disney princesses, a review of ‘Collective Rage’ by Jen Silverman, and a debate about what makes a good movie-to-musical adaptation.

For the first time on the show, the Friends leave New York City, and travel to the Fisher Center at Bard College and Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, with guests Erin Markey and Robyn Kerr. Conclusion: The Friends need to get out more.